Kashmir Unrest: Curfew finally lifted from Pulwama

However, the separatist-sponsored strike call has entered 53rd day paralyzing normal life in the Valley

Even as normal life remained affected for 53rd day due to separatist-sponsored strike call, curfew was finally lifted from the restive Pulwama town following gradual improvement in the situation across Kashmir. This means the city’s MR Gunj and Nowhatta police stations are now the only areas of the Valley under curbs.

“Only two police station areas in Srinagar city – MR Gunj and Nowhatta — are under curfew today,” a police officer said, adding that no other area in Valley was under curfew which was put in place in the wake of violence following killing of Hizbul Mujahideen commander Burhan Wani.
Curfew has been lifted from Pulwama town where prohibitory orders were in force till Monday, the officer said.

He said the decision to lift curbs was taken following improvement in the situation. There were minor stone-pelting incidents at a few places on Monday, but the overall situation remained peaceful and under control throughout the Valley, he said. Curfew was on Monday lifted from the entire Valley except three police station areas 51 days after it was clamped to maintain law and order.

The officer, however, said security forces have been deployed in strength in sensitive areas of the Valley to maintain law and order. Life in Srinagar city has started limping towards normalcy since Monday as there was increased movement of private cars and auto-rickshaws on the roads.
This morning also, there was increased traffic in and around the commercial hub of Lal Chowk in Srinagar.